In Indonesia on 11th of April 2012, an undersea earthquake occurred with a magnitude of 8.6, close to Aceh province. Tsunami warnings were issued in the following countries: Indonesia, Australia, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Myanmar, Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Pakistan, Iran, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Yemen, Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania, Seychelles, Mozambique, and Mauritius. Fearing a repeat of the devastating 2004 earthquake in the area.
SAFEY Emergency System issued an alert on the earthquake event, and a risk of tsunami within minutes of the event.
Our 24/7 analysis team received the incoming data stream live from the tsunami buoys, and calculated the wave shape. Between the tsunami alerts and eyewitness reports, the risk was minimal for a large tsunami, and we added this information to our alert to all users in the area.
However, major media had already spread news of major tsunami, and evacuation orders were given in many countries. Resulting in major disruptions to businesses and transportation. Many low elevation airports such as Phuket Airport were closed, and coastal rail services in many countries were suspended.
A small 0.5 m (20 in) wave, within regular tide limits, was reported in the Campbell Bay area of Great Nicobar Island, and 10 cm waves were reported in Thailand.
Having reliable information is important during an emergency situation. Media provides a lot of information, but too much unverified information is a problem. The high contribution from untrained voluntary helpers can be perceived as a hindrance during these situations. Vetted by experts were more useful during times of crisis. This is where travel security apps have proven to be more useful media during emergencies.